Hey everyone,

Trying to decide between 2 tubs that are for sale locally:

2001 Artesian Piper Glen
and
2003 Hot Springs Sovereign.

A few questions, especially about the piper glen, which I like the most (I think):

1) The piper glen sure seems HUGE. I estimate that 50% of my hot tub time will be with a large crowd (we entertain a lot), so big is good then. However, the other 50% of the time it will be me and that special someone. I am afraid that the tub is so big that the “intimacy” in small groups (even 4 people) will be lost. Like having dinner for 2 at a giant table. Is this a valid concern, or am I crazy?

1a) the piper glen also seems deep. Is it too deep? Do smaller people (not children, but specifically smaller women) have problems in all the seats?

2) all the reviews I have read state the piper has 5 motors. This one only has 3. Is this because it is an older model?

3) Does anyone have any info on actual power consumption of the piper glen? The owners claim that it only costs them $40 a month in electricity, but there is a good chance that electricity in my town is a lot more expensive than in theirs. Anyone have a good idea of the increase in actual kilowatts per month?

4) the insulation on the piper seems thin. It’s a yellow foam that is molded to the outside of the tub, I’d guess its only half an inch thick or so. Does this sound right?

5) are parts easy to get for this tub?

6) any major reason why someone would not get the piper glen (especially reliability or size)?

Some more details:

- Both sellers are asking around $1500. Both tubs appear in good cosmetic condition. The Piper is missing 3 jets, that are “easily replaceable” Do these prices sound fair?

- I cannot wet test either tub. Both have been drained and “winterized” for the winter. I trust both sellers, so I am not worried about getting a dead spa to start with. My primary use will be generally lounging around and relaxing. I do not have any special injuries, however I do have a fair amount of tension in the upper back\shoulder\neck area that would be nice to work on a little.

Looking for any more info, tips, or pointers on either of these tubs before I make the purchase. Anything else I should be aware of or cautious of?

Thanks in advance,
Chad

Artesian.